Discover Candice Cain’s journey from self-starter to successful screenwriter and learn her top strategies for breaking into the Christmas TV movie market.  Whether you’re crafting your first Christmas script or looking to grow in the festive film industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice.  For a full transcript, an action checklist and the show notes – go here:  https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/27-is-cold-querying-producers/

Screenwriter Zac Hug shares why crafting moments of joy, especially tears of joy, is key to creating compelling Christmas movies that attract producers. Learn how to balance innovation while staying true to the genre’s emotional core.  Whether you're writing for a seasoned audience or aiming to sell your first script, Zac’s insights on crafting joy-filled moments, effective writers' groups, and pitching strategies will help you stand out in the Christmas TV-movie market. For the show...

Screenwriter and author Bob Sáenz discusses what producers want in Christmas scripts and advises on how to turn your holiday script into a production-ready masterpiece. Bob emphasizes the significance of writing to budget, particularly in the Christmas movie genre, as limited resources necessitate creative storytelling within defined parameters. He candidly shares how he navigates the industry, the importance of networking, and establishing authentic relationships to get scripts read, while...

Seasoned Christmas movie writer and director Ron Oliver reveals how a strong story concept can attract producers, even if the script has flaws.  For all the show notes, an action checklist and the full transcript – go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/24-how-a-great-story-concept-can-save-a-flawed-script/ Now on YouTube too! https://youtu.be/9iNrVrDX4Ug Fuel more great content by buying me a hot cocoa on https://buymeacoffee.com/christmasmovie  

Screenwriter Kelly Peters offers practical tips on how to make your Christmas scripts stand out to producers, from focusing on the producibility of your script to understanding the importance of networking.  This episode is packed with actionable advice for screenwriters looking to make their mark in the Christmas movie genre. For our action checklist, the show notes and the full transcript - go here: https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/23-secrets-to-breaking-into-christmas-movies/ ...

Screenwriter Lisa Hepner shares how she found a mentor who became integral to her career. She also highlights how mentorship programs can offer industry insights that elevate your writing. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice on why having a mentor could be the key to your success. To get our action checklist, a full transcript and the show notes – go here: ...

Screenwriter Karen Schaler discusses how to strategically target the right producers, ensuring your Christmas movie idea lands in the hands of those most likely to bring it to life. Discover the importance of researching production companies that align with your story's theme, how to tailor your pitch to their specific preferences, and why your success largely depends on strategic targeting after your script is written. If you're looking to turn your holiday screenplay into a beloved...

Christmas script ideas are hard to come up with.  Screenwriter and development exec, Cara Russell offers tips on how to generate more ideas. Learn why you need dozens (70!) of original Christmas script loglines. In this episode, we dive into Cara Russell's journey to screenwriting success and her invaluable advice for aspiring Christmas screenwriters. Cara shares her tips on generating original ideas by brainstorming numerous loglines, expanding your network through volunteering and industry...

Unlock the secrets to crafting standout Christmas spec scripts with insights from successful screenwriter Timothy Kuryak. Learn genre innovation, representation strategies, portfolio building, film deconstruction, and tapping into international markets to elevate your writing career. For a full transcript, the show notes and your action checklist - go here:  https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/19-how-to-make-your-christmas-spec-stand-out/

Screenwriter Isabel Dréan, discusses why a holiday script with heartfelt storytelling has more power than original plots in creating memorable Christmas movies. Join us as we dive into the secrets of successful holiday movies, discussing how strong emotional connections and heartfelt stories resonate more deeply with audiences than unique plots. Whether you're a seasoned screenwriter or just starting, understanding the importance of emotional storytelling is key to creating a timeless...

In this episode, we delve into tailoring screenplays for networks like Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix, highlighting how understanding their brand and tone can boost script acceptance. We cover key strategies for building industry relationships and the significance of emotional character development in scripts. Learn how to adapt your screenplay to meet specific network styles and foster connections to enhance your screenwriting career. The show notes, including the transcript and your...

Screenwriter, producer  and director Christine Conradt shares insights on scriptwriting, effective pitching, and the evolving Christmas movie market. Controversially she reveals how the protagonist’s lessons learned is more important than plot resolution.   The show notes, including the transcript and your checklist of actions to take for this episode, are at https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com/16-the-secret-to-christmas-movie-magic-is-hiding-in-plain-sight/

James Temple, an independent writer, director, and producer, explores the art of using the DIY approach to making Christmas movies. He emphasizes the balance between meeting genre expectations and introducing fresh storytelling elements. James advocates for maintaining control over his projects by self-financing and leveraging connections to secure locations. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 15 James Temple, Writer, Director, Producer Show Notes   HOST: Caryn McCann ...

Lifetime’s VP of Scripted Content, Sapna Vyas, shares the success formula behind enduring Christmas movie hits. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 14 Sapna Vyas, Vice President, Lifetime Scripted Content Show Notes  HOST: Caryn McCann Website:   https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMovieScreenwriter X (Twitter):     https://twitter.com/MerryScriptmas LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryn-mccann-5718058/   ...

Australian-based producer Steve Jaggi reveals an easy way for writers to connect with producers and to write exactly what producers want. Steve's key advice to writers is to connect with producers and understand their needs before you write that script.  He discusses the need for writers to understand their target audience and align scripts with network / production companies’ values. He points out the growing market for Christmas movies in regions like Europe and Southeast Asia. The...

Enduring 40 Years of No's for a Christmas Yes Screenwriter Brian Ruberry found success after a 40-year slog of rejections. He advises writers that post-first sale, you may be able to get work based just on a synopsis versus writing an entire script. Additionally, he highlights script competitions can offer valuable feedback but warns some are just ‘money spinners’. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 12 Brian Ruberry, Screenwriter Show Notes   HOST: Caryn McCann Website:...

Holiday Script finished? Now what?  Screenwriter Jordan Imiola discusses connecting with producers, turbo charging your productivity and the pros and cons of paid screenwriting services.  Whether you’re a seasoned screenwriter or just starting, this podcast offers actionable insights to help you succeed in the merry marketplace of Christmas scripts.   The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 11 Jordan Imiola – Writer, Produce and Director Show Notes   HOST: Caryn McCann ...

Successful screenwriter Erin Rodman reveals unconventional yet effective strategies for success in the Christmas movie industry. Erin shares her journey, emphasizing the paramount importance of authenticity. Erin advocates staying true to one's unique voice, citing her success in attracting buyers despite initially penning an R-rated comedy. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 10 Erin Rodman, Screenwriter Show Notes HOST: Caryn McCann Website:  ...

Seasoned professionals in the Christmas movie industry offer crucial advice for screenwriters. Insights include the necessity of aligning scripts with market demands and the importance of acknowledging and pursuing one's writing ambitions without delay. Contributors also stress the benefits of creating passive income streams and understanding the enduring nature of a screenwriting career. Additionally, the conversation revolves around advocating for innovative storytelling within the...

Successful screenwriter Ansley Gordon offers tips on how to get distributors to reveal what they want in Christmas scripts. She advises on how to add pop culture to your script to make it shine. Ansley discusses: Analyzing produced movies/scripts for insights. Gathering intel from execs; generating fitting ideas. Infusing fresh pop-culture elements creatively. Conducting effective script table reads for refinement.   The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 8 Ansley Gordon –...

Peter Sullivan, Producer, Writer, and Director at Hybrid LLC, shares insights on crafting captivating yuletide tales that break conventions. Valuable advice for writers aiming to stand out in a crowded market. Our top takeaways include: 1.         The remarkable openness of executives to fresh ideas. 2.         The importance of standing out amidst the sea of Christmas movies. 3.         A reality check on the landscape of querying producers.   The Christmas Movie Screenwriter...

Screenwriter Eirene Donohue discusses infusing your personal experiences into scripts for a unique perspective. She offers out-of-the-box advice on starting a passive income plan.  She discusses the power of resilience and a life rich with diverse encounters. This episode is your guide to standing out and thriving in the evergreen world of screenwriting, offering practical wisdom for every aspiring writer's journey. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 6 Eirene Donohue -...

Samantha Herman, a successful screenwriter of 10 Hallmark movies, discusses breaking into the industry and navigating script commissions. She also explores networking, the impact of AI, and offers advice to aspiring screenwriters.   The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 5 Samantha Herman – Screenwriter / Producer Show Notes   HOST: Caryn McCann Website:   https://christmasmoviescreenwriter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasMovieScreenwriter X...

Paula Tiberius is a screenwriter, director, and writing coach. She explains your screenplay’s edge is unique characters and settings. She unravels the secrets to crafting captivating stories that resonate with audiences and get your scripts noticed on major streaming platforms. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting, Paula's insights are essential for aspiring and pro screenwriters alike. The Christmas Movie Screenwriter Podcast – Episode 4 Paula Tiberius – Screenwriter /...